"We had hoped that we might have been able to refloat the whale and get it back out to sea, but unfortunately not this time."

Although rare in New Zealand waters, Cuvier's beaked whales are one of the more common beaked whale species worldwide.

Tissue samples will also be sent to a laboratory for analysis to get a firm identification.

A pregnant female True's beaked whale stranded near the Waiatoto River, at Haast, in November 2011 and a Shepherd's beaked whale stranded near the Cascade River last September. They are rarely seen at sea because of their elusive habits, preference for deep ocean waters and possible low abundance.

Te Runanga o Makaawhio chairman Paul Madgwick said whale strandings had always been of deep significance to Ngai Tahu, from the tribe's creation and migration stories, to the practical uses as a source of food and bones for tools and weapons. Whales were often regarded as kaitiaki (guardians of the sea) and strandings were interpreted as signs.

"It is especially significant for Ngati Mahaki ki Makaawhio that this whale was stranded only a short distance from our old pa site. We will be working closely with DOC to ensure that the carcase is treated with respect," he said.